Denis Hanks
It is with great regret that we announce the death of Denis Hanks. Denis died after several months in hospital following complications relating to his diabetes.
Denis played for Cheadle LC and in the 1960s, 70s and into the 80s in goal for Kenton LC. His performance for Middlesex against Kent in 1962 was recorded by Pathe news when he demonstrated lacrosse goal keeping to the cinema going world (he is the white goalkeeper). The game was played at Lee's old ground in Goddington Lane, Orpington.
Denis was a member of The Centurion LC for very many years and served as our President from 1995 to 1998. He masterminded the club’s House of Lord’s dinner for the last few decades always producing the most memorable of lacrosse events. He organised the manufacture of the club’s much-loved tie and more recently designed and produced our jaunty baseball cap.
As SEMLA secretary from 1969 to 1975 Denis was at the heart of the controversy that changed our sport forever. In 1970 on behalf of the South he proposed to the English Lacrosse Union that the game change from 12 to 10 a side. The vote was 10 – 10 and so the status quo prevailed. The South decided to go its own way and sometime later the North then followed creating the modern English field game.
Denis enjoyed his lacrosse and contributed to the game over many years. He was loyal to his clubs and a great friend to all in the game that he met. He will be greatly missed. He leaves his wife Tricia and two sons.